The Connection

The cold weather would not deter hardy cyclists from riding. Dave Meyer said that gift cards, children’s bicycles, and warm clothing are popular gift items at his store, Green Lizard Cycling, located at 718 Lynn Street, Herndon. Gift cards can be applied to merchandise and services, such as the Guru Fit System, which gives an analysis of cyclists and their bicycles and gives recommendations to improve their riding experience. The service costs $250. Meyer said that there is a range for each item, offering holiday gift choices for consumers. “It depends on how much people want to spend,” he said. As for him, he would like to get bike lights. “Anything to be more visible,” especially in winter. The store is also offering tune-up specials for $99 to get bikes ready for warmer weather.

“Ornaments,” said Kim Rieder of Shelby’s Hallmark, located at Fox Mill Shopping Center in Herndon. “It’s probably the most popular item, especially ones with a date on them.” Shelby’s Naomi Bartakke said people collect the Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments, which range from $10-40. Hand-painted wine glasses by Lolita, retailing at $30, are also in demand this season, as well as candles and socks, which create a warm atmosphere. The store is a “one-stop shopping for cards and gifts,” said Bartakke.

At Reston Music, located at Fox Mill Shopping Center in Herndon, guitars are the most popular items for gifts. The price starts at $69. Ukuleles, from $49, drums, from $39, and drum sets, from $450, are also in demand, said Reston Music’s Kevin Bearce.

At Appalachian Spring, located at Reston Town Center, the number one selling item is jewelry designed by Ed Levin. The items have been a staple at Appalachian Spring stores for 45 years. “People just know it,” said director of stores Hayley Hoffman. The signature items are the bracelets, which retail from $196-214, and are made of sterling silver or 14 karat gold. Customers can also purchase jewelry boxes wherein to keep their valuables. They range from $75 to $1,500. Hoffman said that the more pricey boxes are companion pieces that a person will keep for years. For the coffee and tea drinker, the store carries mugs and pottery by Pennsylvania artist Ryan Greenheck. “Mugs are a very personal gift,” said Hoffman. “Every morning when someone drinks coffee, that person will remember you.” The mugs start at $40. Children’s toys are also popular. The store stocks heirloom-quality, classic, children’s toys.

At Brighton Collectibles, located at Reston Town Center, items are curated to match and complement each other. Assistant manager Patty Perrone said that elements of the jewelries’ designs can be seen in the shoes and bags. “The jewelry reflects the hardware.” The handbags retail between $170 - $400 and come with a two year warranty and lifetime cleaning service. The store also has a charm bar, where customers can pick and personalize bracelets, necklaces, and other jewelry items.

Lastly, Dandelion Patch, at Reston Town Center, will personalize merchandise with vinyl for $8. The most popular items to put one’s name or initials? Tumblers, $21, by Kate Spade. They also sell, bags, stationery, and various sundries.